Starring: Piotr Głowacki, Krzysztof Czeczot, Wojciech Solarz, Maciej Makowski
Directed by: Waldemar Krzystek
Rating: ★★★☆☆
It is clear that Waldemar Krzystek has developed a penchant for reconstructing the history of Poland under the Soviet umbrella. His love of detail became evident in Mała Moskwa (Little Moscow, 2008), an elegant romance set in the town Legnica, which once hosted the largest Soviet garrison outside the USSR. The visually engaging riot scenes in 80 milionów (80 Million) are effective proof of the skill of Polish filmmakers in reconstructing dramatic episodes pre-1989.
The close encounter between Solidarność and militia forces on the Grunwaldzki Bridge in Wrocław is re-enacted twice on screen. The double confrontation over the Oder creates the frame of a story that charts the escalating conflict before and after the proclamation of martial law. In between, Krzystek’s film recounts the misadventures of three union activists who extract a large sum of money, the titular 80 million, from Solidarność’s accounts to prevent it being frozen by the authorities.
80 Million is a quirky but solid caper movie set in the few days before Jarurzelski’s coup d’état. Despite being a heist film with no robbery, Krzystek incorporates the tried-and-tested rhythms and turning points of the genre. The brilliant acting of Piotr Głowacki in the role of an unscrupulous and vaguely hysterical SB officer adds to the flavour of the action. Based on a true story, 80 Million was well received by Russian audiences at the Moscow Film Festival.
Originally published by The Krakow Post on August 23, 2012